Jayden Blaine, 21, of Bourkes Road, narrowly avoided losing his licence in the Warrnambool Magistrates Court on Monday after he was witnessed hoon driving by police.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Paul Harris said Blaine was seen by police on April 9 in his Commodore utility pulling out on to the Princes Highway near Terang. 

“He turned out on to the highway and put his foot to the floor,” Senior Constable Harris said. 

Blaine pleaded guilty to charges of failing to have proper control, making unnecessary noise and driving without headlights. 

“He told police that he had just put new spark plugs in the car and he had put his foot to the floor to test out the spark plugs,” Senior Constable Harris said.

Magistrate Ron Saines said Blaine’s decision to drive without lights was the most dangerous offence. 

“It’s a serious matter when you drive out on to one of the busiest highways in the state and you don’t have your headlights on,” Mr Saines said. 

However, the magistrate avoided issuing Blaine with a serious penalty. “Rather than impose a fine what I will do is seek an undertaking — a promise that you will give to the court in writing,” the magistrate said. 

Blaine was given a good behaviour bond and ordered to make a $500 donation to the Warrnambool court fund. 

He was also ordered to attend a road trauma seminar.